Tep Wireless, which rents 3G personal WiFi hotspots and smartphones, has pointed out that “wireless access points and 3G hubs” are banned from venues for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Tomas Mendoza, Managing Director of Tep Wireless, said “We’re just two days away from the start of the first ever Olympic Games in the modern, digital era, but unfortunately the organisers clearly don’t appreciate the advantages technology is offering - and what the public expect as a result. Fans are allowed to bring their iPhones, iPads and Android phones and tablets into Olympic venues - but strangely, they’re not allowed to use wireless access points to connect multiple devices. These are the people who’ve had to go to the considerable trouble - and expense - of buying tickets, booking flights and finding affordable accommodation in one of the world’s most expensive cities. Their next priority is to have reliable and affordable mobile Internet connectivity for all their devices so they can share their once in a lifetime experience with family and friends.”
The London 2012 rules say that smartphones are permitted inside venues but must not be used as wireless access points to connect multiple devices. They also can’t be used for commercial broadcasting without media accreditation.
[Prohibited items (pdf)]